Architectural
Steelwork
SAS International Integrated Service Modules and acoustic lighting rafts specified for Merton College
Architects Nightingale Associates work on
the phased redevelopment of Merton College’s campus buildings
has included the installation of Integrated Service Modules (ISM’s)
from SAS International. In classrooms, laboratories, offices and
general study areas they have provided a modern and robust
solution in the new state of the art teaching block.
Working with M&E Consultants Max Fordham, specialists in
sustainable design, the project included the design of a number
of key features that were critical to this educational
environment. As well as environmental considerations, lighting,
acoustic absorption and security/safety were particularly
important in this educational setting.
The SAS ISM’s proved ideal; being a pre-fabricated and easy to
install solution which combined luminaires, chilled beams, cable
trays and apertures for other building services, such as PIR
(Passive Infra Red) sensors. Several hundred metres of ISM’s
were installed in the building. Being suspended directly from an
open soffit or within coffers, they allowed the free air
movement to the exposed concrete slabs for sustainable natural
mass cooling.
The ISM’s also featured an acrylic lighting diffuser on the top
of each module, which allowed up-lighting onto the building’s
soffit. The ratio of down- to up-lighting was approximately
80:20.
“One of the main design features of the building was using
thermal mass cooling as an option, reducing the need for
mechanical ventilation,” said Gary Waugh from Nightingale
Associates. “In the IT rooms, additional cooling requirements
determined the choice of chilled beam technology which use less
energy than standard air conditioning. SAS International’s
Integrated Service Modules were ideal for this, and were
specified to match the beam profile employed elsewhere in the
building.”
SAS System 600 acoustic lighting rafts were also specified,
which featured both luminaires and acoustic absorption pads. The
fitting of acoustic pads helped to absorb sound, which is
particularly relevant in a class room situation.
Security considerations are also critical in this type of
environment and both the ISMs and acoustic lighting rafts offer
the ability to protect the building services. Furthermore, a
series of metal panels were specially designed and manufactured
by SAS International to fit between the end of the ISM or raft
and the wall, to hide cabling and pipework for additional
protection and aesthetic considerations.
The result is a striking, modern and very functional interior
throughout which fulfils the key requirements for this exciting
development.
Email:
enquiries@sasint.co.uk